2020 SUMMER COLORSILOVELAKEMAC.COM - LAKE MCCONAUGHY AND KEITH COUNTY AREA TRAVEL GUIDE
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2020 Lake McConaughy and Keith County Area Travel Guide Summer Colors ilovelakemac.com
80 guest rooms, fitness center,
indoor pool, meeting space,
outdoor patios and much more.
206 Pony Express Lane • Ogallala, NE
308-284-6080
www.ihg.com
Come check us out!
2
FISHERMEN’S PARADISE – While walleye are the most has proven, year after year, to have the best walleye fishery in
sought-after fish, Lake McConaughy is home to several other Nebraska and one of the best fisheries in the Midwest. Annu-
species, including white bass, smallmouth bass and north- ally, Lake McConaughy hosts fishing tournaments, including
ern pike, that draw interest from anglers. Lake McConaughy one for junior anglers in mid-June.
3
CLEAN AND CLEAR – At full pool, Lake McConaughy for sailing and boating. Lake McConaughy provides acces- boasts 35,000 surface acres and 105 miles of shoreline, mak- sible sandy beaches to launch and temporarily dock personal ing it a preferred destination for water and beach enthusiasts. watercraft, while its wide-open surface provides plenty of room The lake is 20 miles long and features some of the best water for boaters to enjoy their craft. 4
BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL DIRECTORY FOR OGALLALA/KEITH COUNTY
Monday thru Friday
217 East 1st
Serving Breakfast Ogallala
5 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. 308-284-6138
Serving Lunch Over 1,000 different liquor and wine items!
10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Convenience Store / Fuel / Open 24 Hours
620 East 1st St. • Ogallala
Bait • Fishing Licenses • ATM • Ice
308-284-6922 Firewood Bundles • Money Orders
Sherri Tickle
308-284-6955
201 N. Spruce
Ogallala, NE Modern Western
69153 Inspired Clothing
Cassie Knoop, Owner
102 N Spruce St.
Hours: 9:30 - 5:00 Tues. - Fri. Ogallala, NE 69153
10:00 - 3:00 Sat.; Closed Sun. & Mon. 308-284-7020
Come shop with us...
It’s not what you spend, It’s what you save. cassie@thetincactus.com
112 North Spruce St Phone (308) 284-2822
Ogallala Ne 69153 Email: slowlanecoffee@gmail.com
Main Street Meats Deja Vu Furnishings
Matt & Laura Payne We Buy and Sell New, Near New, Gently
Hours: Tues.-Fri. 9 to 6 • Sat. 9 to 4 Used, Antique and Hand-Painted
Sun. 10 to 2 (Closed Monday) Furniture and Accessories.
806 West 1st Street Deja Vu, L.L.C.
1014 West 1st St.
Ogallala, NE 69153 Ogallala, NE 69153
308-284-1177 Owner: Ken Pohlman
mainstreetmeatsog@gmail.com Contact Ken or Amy
(308) 280-0992 or (308) 280-0993
So. Hwy. 61
(1/2 Mile South of I-80 Interchange)
ARNOLD POOL COMPANY
Ogallala, Nebraska
POOLS, SPAS, CHEMICALS,
(308) 284-4518 SERVICE, ACCESSORIES
SPECIALIZING IN... COMMERCIAL — RESIDENTIAL
BRING US YOUR... Laser Alignments • Axle Correction
Spin Balancing • Suspension & Brakes
308-284-4754 • 800-652-6615
Light & Heavy Trucks • Buses
RV’s • Pickups • Vans • Autos Electrical • Tune-Ups • Diagnostics 1801 Stagecoach Trail • Ogallala, NE 69153
Stock, Camper & Flatbed Trailers General Repair Darby & Erica Flansburg, owners
181 Lawrence Road, P. O. Box 507, Ogallala, NE 69153 email: info@arnoldpoolcompany.com www.arnoldpoolcompany.com
5
2020 CALENDAR OF EVENTS
FOR VISITOR INFORMATION, CONTACT 1-800-658-4390
EXPLOREKEITHCOUNTY.COM
JANUARY THROUGH MARCH June 13: Community garage sales at Brule, BJ Van Velson
Eagle viewing at Lake Ogallala. December through March. 308-287-2149.
Contact Nate Nielsen at 308-284-2332 for more information. June 19-20: Hobie Tropical Dreams Regatta, Bill McBride
at 308-284-2400.
JANUARY June 20: Junior Fishing tournament, hosted by Youth Out-
Jan. 18-19: Gun show at the Keith County Fairgrounds, doors Nebraska, Shawn Rubek (402) 699-3297.
Skip Fricke at 402-276-1391.
JULY
FEBRUARY July 3: Demolition derby at the Keith County Fairgrounds,
Feb. 22-23: Brule Gun Show in the Brule Activity Center. Troy Malone (308) 289-4991.
Contact 308-233-2501 or 308-464-0246. July 14: Haythorn’s Ranch Rodeo, 308-255-4000.
Feb. 29 and March 1: Oregon Trail Home Show at the Keith July 25: 31st annual Kites and Castles sand castle build-
County Fairgrounds, Adam Peters at 308-289-0151. ing contest and kite flying event, chamber at 308-284-4066.
MARCH AUGUST
Crane migration near Lewellen. Contact the Ogallala/Keith Aug. 1: Brule Day, BJ Van Velson at 308-287-2149.
County Chamber of Commerce at 308-284-4066. Aug. 1-2: Ogallala Round-Up Rodeo, Steve Kraus at 308-
289-0285.
APRIL Aug. 5-9: Keith County Fair, Wayne Thunker 308-284-6952.
April 25: Season-opening races at Wild West Soap Box SEPTEMBER
Derby, Dave Barrett at 308-289-1464. Sept. 4-6: Hobie Mac Attack Regatta, Bill McBride at 308-
284-2400.
MAY Sept. 5-7: Paxton Labor Day Celebration.
May 4: Catfish Classic, Darrell Morrow 308-778-5879. Sept. 5-6: Brule Gun Show in the Brule Activity Center.
May 6-19: Meadowlark Hill Lilac Collection, 14 miles south- Contact 308-233-2501 or 308-464-0246.
east of Ogallala, 308-284-2524. Sept. 17-19: 36th annual Indian Summer Rendezvous,
May 28: Chamber’s Thursday Sounds on the Square at Keith County festival at Ogallala, chamber at 308-284-4066.
Rendezvous Square at Ogallala. Music starts at 6 p.m. each
Thursday through July 9. Contact the chamber at 308-284- NOVEMBER
4066. Nov. 21: Ogallala’s annual Arts and Craft Show, chamber
May 31: Shut Up & Fish Tournament, Chad Vogl at 308- at 308-284-4066.
355-2321. DECEMBER
December TBD: Christmas Parade of Lights and other
JUNE Christmas activites, chamber at 308-284-4066.
June 6-7: 16th annual Ogallala Drovers Invitational Golf
Tournament. Contact the chamber at 308-284-4066 or sign ADDITIONS
up online at visitogallala.com. To add your event to the 2021 Calendar of Events, contact
June 13: 16th annual Terry McCormick Memorial Walleye the Ogallala/Keith County Chamber of Commerce at 308-284-
Tournament, Rose McCormick at 308-778-7216. 4066.
Gifts, Antiques, & Collectibles
Wheelchair Friendly
“The coffee is always on!”
Summer Hours: Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m.
Family:
Parra-Meraz
Sunday 1 p.m.-5 p.m.
~ Family Restaurant ~ 308-284-4703 • 1-800-642-4703
112 Prospector Dr. • Ogallala, NE 69153 502 E. First Street • Ogallala, NE 69153
(308) 284-2066 email: trails@allophone.com
6
THINGS TO SEE AND DO
Ash Hollow State Historical Park Goodall Rec Center, Ogallala Parks and Diamonds
Grounds open year-around from 8 a.m. Indoor pool open mid September through Western Diamonds Sports Complex is
until 5 p.m. Nebraska Game & Parks Park mid May. Features a hot tub, infrared sauna, a lighted complex consisting of four soft-
Entry Permit required. Museum open Fri- indoor pool, weight training and exercise ball and baseball fields and two AYSO
day through Sunday from Memorial Day equipment, and indoor walking track. All- regulation soccer fields.
weekend through Labor Day weekend, 9 weather outdoor basketball court. Splash A 1.8-mile hiking and biking trail runs
a.m. until 4 p.m. Admission is $2 for adults pad. Located at 505 W. G St. Keyless entry through the complex and playground
and $1 for children under 12. available for weight and exercise equipment equipment is available. WDSC hosts sev-
room only. eral youth baseball and softball tourna-
Boot Hill ments each year.
Authentic cowboy cemetery from Kathleen Lute Public Library, Ogallala The American Legion Field is a lighted
Ogallala’s pioneer days. Located at West Located at 610 West A St. Fully accred- complex with a concession stand and
10th & Parkhill Drive (four blocks west of ited library with computer and Internet ac- bleacher seating.
Spruce at West 10th). cess. New facility, opened in 2020. There are four lighted tennis courts at
Glines/Nye Park, West 10th and B streets.
Cornhusker Lanes Bowling Alley Lake Mac Water The city parks have numerous picnic
East Highway 30 in Ogallala, 16 lanes, Interpretive/Visitor Center shelters. Four parks have playground
Brunswick equipment, open bowling. Located south of Kingsley Dam. Features equipment. Williams Park, located in north
educational look at Platte River water use. Ogallala, has a disc golf course.
Eagle Viewing Center Tri-Trails Historic Park includes mark-
At Lake Ogallala below Kingsley Dam. Meadowlark Hill Lilac Collection ers from historic cattle trails, including the
One of the largest lilac collections in the Great Western, Chisholm and Oregon,
Front Street world. Open second and third weeks in May. and also marks the Pony Express Trail.
Free cowboy museum. Crystal Palace Located 14 southeast of Ogallala. Phone
Revue Dance Hall Show (family show – 308-284-2524. Petrified Wood Gallery
reservations required). Phone 308-284- Located at 418 E. First St. A museum
6000. Little Church at Keystone of natural history specializing in ancient
Figure Four Traditions Free admission. For a tour, phone 308- woods and fossils collected by Howard
Ranch tours (20 minimum), wagon 726-2281 or 308-726-2006. and Harvey Kenfield. Gift shop.
rides and gift store at the historic Haythorn
Ranch 17 miles north of Ogallala. Mansion on the Hill Prairie Theatre
1887 residence, West 10th & Spruce. 202 North Spruce St., (308) 284-2728.
Golf Open Memorial Day through Labor Day. Ad- Vintage 1930s-style theater showing mov-
Bayside Golf, south side Lake Mc- mission is $2 for adults and $1 for children ies on two screens.
Conaughy, Gate 18, 18-hole course. (ages 5-12).
Men’s yardage 6,500. Restaurant and Wild West Soap Box Derby
lounge, pro shop, cart rental, driving Ole’s Big Game Lounge One of only 24 tracks in the nation, the
range, chipping green, patio homes and At Paxton, 200 mounted big game tro- Wild West Soap Box Derby track at
cabin rentals. Phone: 308-287-4653. phies. Nebraska’s most famous watering Ogallala hosts a national championship
West Wind Golf Club, 18-hole golf hole. qualifier and local rally races in the spring
course, east on Prospector Road, east of Outdoor Pool, Ogallala and summer.
Travel Centers of America, Men’s yard- Open June 1 through Aug. 25. Municipal Located near Western Diamonds
age 6,320. Lounge, pro shop, cart rental, pool with diving boards and water slide. Spe- Sports Complex, the lighted track hosts
driving range, putting green. 308-284- cial children’s wading pool. Located at 307 between three and four weekend racing
4358. W. Seventh St. dates each year.
7
Nebraska’s ‘Cowboy Capital’
Named for the Oglala band of Dakota as “Cowboys Rest” and “Crystal Palace.”
Sioux and located on the Union Pacific The Ogallala House became the center of
Railroad, Ogallala was a lusty cowtown of social activities for the townspeople and the
the Old West. big cattlemen.
Chief gateway to the northern plains – Activity at Ogallala continued at a fe-
that was Ogallala from 1875 to 1888. ver pitch until the end of August. By then,
During this decade Texas drovers deliv- the drives for the season were ending and
ered their trail herds of longhorn cattle by the drovers who had brought the herds up
the thousands. the trail were gradually drifting to their na-
Cattlemen met in Ogallala’s hotel and tive Texas.
saloons with Texas cattle kings and haggled Business revived briefly during the fall
about prices to be paid for the longhorns, months in October, when the cattlemen of
which were used to stock the northern the area began to bring their steers in off
plains in Nebraska, Colorado, Wyoming, the grass for shipment east.
the Dakotas and Montana. By November, however, Ogallala settled
Cattle also were shipped east on the back in quiet and peaceful repose.
Union Pacific. Indian agencies and mining The floaters, gamblers, tradespeople and "Gomorrah of the cattle trail."
camps also provided markets for Ogallala dancehall hostesses, who made up a large That's how trail driver Andy
portion of Ogallala’s mobile population, Adams described early Ogallala. In
beef.
drifted off to Omaha or Cheyenne to spend his book, "Log of a Cowboy," Adams,
During summer months, business who first came up the trail in 1875,
boomed. Saloonkeeper, storekeeper and ho- the winter. Only the hotel, one supply store
said:
telkeeper all shared in the prosperity. and a single saloon remained open for the
"We finally scaled the last divide
At least 10 or 12 herds, each of 2,500 winter. and there below in the valley of the
head, could usually be located south of the From 1879 to 1884, 100,000 to 125,000 South Platte, nestled Ogallala, the
town, a bawling mass carpeting the plains, cattle each year were trailed to Ogallala. Gomorrah of the cattle trail. From
while waiting for their new owners. The By 1884, the trail driving days were vir- amongst its half hundred buildings,
presence of a hundred or more trail hands tually ended and the Old West and Ogallala no church spire pointed upward, but
taxed the facilities of Ogallala. turned to other ways of life. But cattle re- instead three-fourths of its business
Many cowboys spent their nights nap- main the area’s No. 1 industry. houses were dance halls, gambling
ping on the “soft side” of a walnut board. (The word Oglala means to “scatter houses and saloons."
The saloons carried such colorful names one’s own.”)
Super Center
Open 7 days a week 6 a.m. to 1 a.m.
200 Texas Trail Dr. in Ogallala Home D
308-284-4102 Gas ecor
One
nics Grocer
Electro Stop y
Auto Shop Clothin
g
Movies Pharma
Toys & cy
Sporting Goods
Fuel Station 5 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Pumps open 24/7
201 Pony Express Lane • Ogallala, NE
8
New library offers lifelong learning space
Ogallala’s new Kathleen Lute
Public Library opens early this
year in time for seasonal visi-
tors.
The new library, located at
610 W. A St., just down the
street from the old library, is a
project that has been decades in
the making.
By early 2019, after years of
planning and preparation, back-
ers had raised more than $2
million for the project, thanks
to large donations from chari-
table organizations and local
governments, as well as contri-
butions from the community,
and ground was broken March
25, 2019.
The one-level, 12,992- THE NEW KATHLEEN LUTE PUBLIC LIBRARY WILL BE OPEN EARLY THIS YEAR.
square-foot facility is more than
twice the size of the old Goodall and computer lab. sources to research the rich his- and leisure area and “maker
Library and entirely handi- A dedicated adult computer tory of area families and foun- spaces” throughout the facility
capped accessible, with plenty lab has 10 stations available for ders. to inspire creativity in guests of
of off-street parking on its own public use, and free WiFi is also More than just a library, the all ages.
lot. available throughout the new space features a large, di- The public is invited to the
The main floor is divided into grounds for patrons to access vidable conference room that library and visitors to the area
separate sections for adult and the Internet on their personal accommodates 100 guests and are welcome to see the new
young adult material, and there devices. is available for rent. space that is dedicated to life-
is a dedicated children’s area A genealogy area provides re- There’s a dedicated reading long learning.
308-284-7008
Stop out and say hello! We’re in the business of
ah-mazing coffee, specialty espresso drinks,
fruit smoothies, pastries and teas. But, our specialty
is making you smile. Every. Single. Time.
Everything made-to-order with fresh
ingredients and bold flavors.
Served with a smile and a dash of fun.
Locally owned and operated
302 Oregon Trail Drive • Ogallala, NE
Across from Walmart
9
Boot Hill marks early western history
Even Ogallala folks’ tolerance had a baby. When her body was exhumed 30
limit, so after three days of drinking and years later for reburial in the “new” cem-
shooting up the town, they sent Sheriff etery, west of town, it had petrified, one
“Buffalo Joe” Hughes in pursuit of riot- of the gravediggers reported.
ing Texas cowhands. However, that gravedigger also called
His shotgun felled one going out the her “Lillie,” the name of Bernard Miller’s
barroom door. Another died three days second wife who left town with her hus-
later of a gutfull of shot. A third joined his band in good health when the open range
compadres on Boot Hill later in the sum- era began to shut down.
mer from wounds suffered that night. Other women and children, too, were
Boot Hill was buried “on the hill,” including Cynthia
Ogallala’s only of- McCey, who died of consumption; 4-year-
ficial burying site old Ida Alice Aufdengarten, who died of
during the “end of snakebite; Mary McMurdo Bleasdale, who
the trail” decade died in childbirth; Sheriff Joe Hughes’ only
from 1874 through girl child, who was crushed by a falling
1884. timber; and teenager Gertrude Fisher, who
A hundred or died in the typhoid epidemic of 1884.
more people were The county commissioners paid $5 to
rolled in canvas bury one of Dull Knife’s braves, who had
and dropped into died traveling north during the Cheyenne
shallow graves du- Outbreak of 1878-79.
A bronze horse
ring that time, a re- Joseph Hayden won $100,000 gam-
and rider, made by
markable death ra- bling with Texas cattle barons one night
te for a settlement and tried to escape east on the 2 a.m. train Boot Hill Cemetery, one of Ogallala’s
Eagle Bronze Fou- most-visited tourist attractions, was the
with only about with a suitcase of gold coins. William
ndry of Wyoming, town’s only official burying ground dur-
130 permanent re- Bland and a gang of cowboys took him
includes incredible ing “the end of the trail” decade from
sidents at that time. off the train at Alkali (now Paxton) and
detail. In May 1867, 1874-1884. In 2007, an old concrete
somehow, Hayden was shot three times
the first bodies were buried on the hill. trying to escape. statue was replaced with a bronze horse
They were three Union Pacific tracklayers Pedro, “other name unknown,” was and rider. The old concrete statue was
killed in an Indian raid a mile east of what shot near Roscoe by a Cheyenne County refurbished and placed along Highway
is now Spruce Street. posse that had trailed him driving a herd 30 at the Ogallala Livestock Auction
Robert Webster, a drover, was shot to of stolen horses. Market near the west end of the city of
death August 1875, while bathing in the Bill Campbell, who had achieved al- Ogallala.
North Platte River. Naked and unarmed, most mythical fame for his exploits on the
he was gunned down by a fellow cowhand trail, got drunk in Ogallala one day and establishment, lying between “two fellows
traveling under the name of Woolsey, the accused one of the Moy brothers of being with their heads bashed in.”
final chapter in what began as a practical a “Yankee bean eater.” “Rattlesnake Ed” Worley was killed in
joke on their black camp cook. The Texan, once-removed from Geor- 1884 by Lank Keyes in a fight over a $9
A sage said, “The West was hell on gia, took exception to the slur and later monte bet. The following year, Lank’s
women and horses.” Boot Hill records killed Campbell in a duel across the dance brother, John, killed a man in a barroom
agree – though no horse burials were re- floor in the Cowboys Rest Saloon. battle.
corded there. A 14-year-old cowboy on his first trip Some of the bodies buried at Ogallala’s
Sarah Miller, the young wife of a local up the trail woke up one morning behind Boot Hill Cemetery have never been iden-
rancher, was buried with her newborn the Crystal Palace Saloon, Ogallala’s other tified.
Contact us for
all your truck
& diesel repairs!
~ Est. 1939 ~
We have been serving 902 W. 1st St. • Ogallala, NE 69153
the area for 80 years. 308-284-7080
1011
Splash pad, playground project underway
Fundraising on a new splash pad-play-
ground is underway and project officials are
hopeful that the new amenity, which will
be located near the Goodall Recreation
Center, will be open to all by mid to late
summer.
Funded through private donations and
grants, the estimated project cost is around
$400,000.
Former Nebraska quarterback and
Heisman Trophy winner Eric Crouch,
through his company, Crouch Recreation,
will construct, after personally designing,
both the playground and splash pad.
The new playground, which will replace
the current one at Collister Park, will fea-
ture more child-friendly equipment sitting
on a flat, stable poured-rubber surface, and
will be accessible by way of a level, as-
phalt parking lot and cement sidewalks,
which the city will install. AN ARTIST’S RENDERING OF THE PROPOSED SPLASH PAD.
Collister Park is located behind the
Goodall Recreation Center and was cho- and adults with disabilities. from falling off and being injured.
sen as an ideal spot to build the new play- Other features of the playground include The splash pad will also be ADA com-
ground and splash pad because there will a rock-climbing wall, vertical net, a giant pliant, consisting of a flat cement surface
not be much traffic near the proposed ac- musical xylophone and drums that will ac- that will easily accommodate individuals
tivity area. commodate individuals in wheelschairs. in wheelchairs and using walkers.
The playground and splash pad will be There will also be a spinner, or 10-spin, It will feature sensors, both manual and
compliant with the Americans with Dis- similar to the old-fashioned metal spinners, automatic, which will begin the water flow-
abilities Act. The playground will feature a but made out of a different, safer material ing. The water features will be on timers,
swing that will accommodate both children and with features that will keep occupants and water will not flow while not in use.
Welcome to Keith County
& Lake McConaughy!
See our
interactive
visitor kiosks
at the Lake
McConaughy
Visitors Cente
r
and the
Ogallala I-80 Boat & RV parking • Free SuperStart® breakfast
Interchange Free wireless Internet • Big Family Room • Micro/Frig
near Casey’s Coffee maker & hair dryer in all rooms • Free local calls
Cable TV • Guest laundry • Large vehicle parking
Plan your visit at
Children 17 & under stay free with adult
Download the Lake ilovelakemac.com
McConaughy app for
coupons and more!
800-658-4390
Stop in at the Keith
County Visitor Center
A message from the Keith
119 East 2nd St., Ogallala County Visitors Committee
12Rec Center offers everything for fitness
The Goodall Recreation Center, located
at 505 E. G St., at Ogallala, offers a facility
for those who train or want to stay in shape.
The community undertook two fundrai-
sing projects that have transformed the fa-
cility into one that offers almost everything
for the fitness conscious.
Prior to the splash pad and playground,
the most recent addition to the center com-
plex is an outdoor basketball court named
in honor of former Ogallala High School
Coach the late Mark Etzelmiller.
The community, in its second recent
grassroots effort to improve the facility and
its grounds, raised nearly $36,000 to im-
prove the concrete court to a new all-
weather surface with glass-backboard bas-
ketball goals.
The center, which has served the com- THE RECREATION CENTER HAS A LARGE INDOOR SWIMMING POOL.
munity since 1973, also features a recent area for aerobics classes. from 5:30 a.m. until 8 p.m. Monday through
expansion and the addition of equipment. The area is a welcome addition to a fa- Thursday, 5:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. Friday, and
The center’s Expansion Committee was cility that features an indoor pool (open mid noon until 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
able to raise more than $300,000 and re- September through mid May), infrared Keyless entry is available for the weight
ceive a $300,000 matching commitment sauna, hot tub, weight training and exer- and exercise equipment room, and the
from the city of Ogallala, paving the way cise equipment facilities, and shower areas. walking track.
for the center to about double its existing The indoor pool is closed when Ogallala Daily rates for both adults and youth are
square footage within the past five years. opens its outdoor facility at 307 W. Sev- no more than $3.
In addition to the steel building, which enth St. An annual single, adult membership is
is located on the east side of the center, the The center has nearly 50 exercise ma- $140 and senior citizen rates are $103 an-
project included drainage and ventilation chines. nually. Both those include keyless entry.
work, restrooms, an indoor walking and an The Goodall Recreation Center is open The phone number is (308) 284-8735.
“Opening Doors Is What We Do...”
Nicole Walburn B. Diane England Diane Larimer Lorrie McCarville
Broker Assoc. Broker Sales Assoc. Sales Assoc.
(308) 289-2209 (308) 284-4104 (308) 340-3597 (402) 690-9106
nicolew@megavision.com dianee@megavision.com larimerdiane@gmail.com algergrade@gmail.com
EQUAL HOUSING
OPPORTUNITY
319 E. “A” St.
Ogallala, NE 69153
www.cobbrealtyinc.com
13Gallery collection continues to amaze visitors
Ogallala’s Petrified Wood unique collection of lapidary
Gallery’s newly remodeled art, including beautifully pol-
room is being well used since ished rounds of wood, limbs,
its recent completion and is agates, spheres and carvings ar-
available to the public for any tistically displayed.
number of functions. There also are fossil cones
Located at 418 E. First St., and fossilized leaf imprints, as
the family-friendly gallery is a well as Native American arti-
museum of natural history spe- facts, which were found within
cializing in ancient woods and a 25-mile radius of Ogallala,
other art exhibits. mostly in the Lake McCon-
The new space offers an area aughy area.
for artists to give lessons and for It is an amazing collection of
local and traveling art show- natural history, rivaling any in
ings. It is also available for pri- much larger cities.
vate receptions and other func- The collection has won
tions. prizes at gem and mineral
Gallery items have been col- shows throughout the nation.
lected since 1952 and gifted to During one event at St. Louis,
the community by twin artists- Mo., the exhibit won both top
craftsmen Harvey and Howard awards, the first time in the his-
Kenfield. NATIVE AMERICAN ARTIFACTS – Ogallala’s Petrified Wood tory of the show that both
A gallery highlight is the & Art Gallery features many Native American artifacts, includ- awards went to the same ex-
prize-winning collection of ing a massive collection of arrowheads, pewters and other hibit.
three-dimensional petrified statues. Gallery visitors also will find
wood pictures of ghost towns, hand-gluing them to canvas There are also pieces of pet- a most unique gift shop.
houses and barns reminiscent of backgrounds. rified wood transformed into The gallery allows Ogallala
the Great Depression era. Also popular with gallery pine cones, flowers, insects, and its residents to treat their
The scenes are created by visitors are pictures of birds butterflies, toadstools and even visitors to an education in natu-
taking small pieces of thin, made with naturally colored mice and a piece of cheese. ral history and the beauty it of-
shale-like petrified wood and pieces of petrified wood. Visitors also will find a fers.
& Art Gallery
A highly-acclaimed gallery of fine art,
We treat our guests
natural history, ancient woods and like neighbors
fossils – featuring Native American • Friendly staff
artifacts, hand-crafted • Free WiFi ★ Family friendly atmosphere
petrified wood pictures
• Homestyle breakfast ★ Burgers made with 100% all
and music boxes.
• And much more natural, locally raised beef
Visit our Gift Shop
★ Homemade appetizers,
Open Year Around sandwiches & salads
Seasonal Hours ★ Largest selection of
New and beers & wines
Enlarged ★ Take-out available
Our #1 priority is
Gallery! making our guests ★ ATM, pool table, video
feel right at home games, music & more
Admission: Free Will Donation
418 East 1st Street • Ogallala
308-284-2266 1108 North Spruce • Ogallala, NE
501 Stagecoach Tr • Ogallala Conveniently located on the
308-284-9996 www.wyndhamhotels.com way to Lake McConaughy
www.petrifiedwoodgallery.com email: ogallala.ne@americinn.com Phone: 308-284-0899
14BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL DIRECTORY FOR OGALLALA/KEITH COUNTY
Fishing, Camping & Hunting Headquarters
Ogallala ACE Hardware
South I-80 Interchange
605 East ‘A’ Street, South • Ogallala, NE
308-284-7115
Mead Lumber
See us for all your
building materials!
Convenience Store 308-284-2354
308-284-6184 308-284-6231 1325 West 1st Street
1103 West 1st (West Hwy 30) • Ogallala, NE Ogallala, NE
BODY & PAINT INC. All Types Wiring
Residential - Commercial - Industrial
24 Hour Wrecker Service Agricultural - Grain Handling - Irrigation
Lake Recovery Retail Electrical Supplies
108 West I Street
Ogallala, Nebraska 69153
Mobile 289-5529
Mobile 289-3507
284-4814
Phone 284-3678 617 E. 1st Street • Ogallala, NE 69153
We Keep America Running
Auto & Truck Parts
Asphalt
Aggregates
Construction
308-284-2612
308-284-3933
Ogallala NAPA
Ready Mix Concrete 2800 East Riverdale 284-3664 • 1-800-866-3664
Ogallala, NE
Pavement Preservation 119 EAST A • OGALLALA
15McConaughy is year-round playground
Can you name Nebraska’s biggest depending on weather conditions.
playground? Or one of Nebraska’s top Special group tours are offered by
outdoor vacation destinations? Nebra- calling (308) 284-2332.
ska’s No. 1 site for eagle viewing? Or Kingsley Dam, which impounds the
the site of Nebraska’s largest hydroelec- North Platte River for irrigation and
tric plant? power generation, was completed in
The answer: Lake McConaughy and 1941.
Kingsley Dam. With 35,000 surface The dam is 3-1/2 miles long and 162
acres and 105 miles of shoreline, it is feet high. It is 1,100 feet thick at the base.
the state’s biggest playground and offers Construction started on Kingsley Dam
year-round fun. in 1936 and was built at a cost of $43.5
At full storage, McConaughy is 20 million.
miles long, 4 miles wide and 142 feet The 50-megawatt Kingsley Dam Hy-
deep at the dam. droelectric Plant, the state’s largest, was
With its cool, clear-blue waters, fish- completed in 1984 at a cost of $49 mil-
ing is the lake’s primary drawing card lion.
but, because of its white sandy beaches, The hydroelectric plant is owned by
Lake Mac also is noted for its sailing, Central Nebraska Public Power and Irri-
camping, windsurfing, scuba diving, gation District and was financed by the
water skiing and picnicking. Nebraska Public Power District, which
But it also has year-round activities purchases the power generated by the
such as hunting, ice-boating, ice skating plant.
and backpacking. Nearby attractions include Ash Hol-
Lake Ogallala, just below Kingsley low State Historical Park near Lewellen,
Dam, is Nebraska’s premiere eagle- and Crescent Lake National Wildlife Ref-
viewing facility. uge north of Oshkosh.
The Central Nebraska Public Power KITES AND CASTLES – One of Lake Mac’s Clear Creek Waterfowl Management
& Irrigation District operates a heated most family-friendly events is Kites and Castles, Area at the west end of McConaughy at-
eagle-viewing observation facility at which is always held the last Saturday in July. tracts Canada geese, which can be hunted
Lake Ogallala. on the controlled shooting area and much
The facility is open from early January to about mid-March, of the lake.
16AREA LODGING FACILITIES
Lodging - Lake McConaughy Oregon Trail Trading Post ............................. 308-778-5879
The Dunes..................................................... 308-521-6018 Otter Creek Lodge ........................................ 308-355-2372
The Beach House ......................................... 308-726-2892 Riverside Campground (Brule) ...................... 308-287-2474
Admiral’s Cove .............................................. 308-355-2102 South Platte Cabins & Kennels ..................... 308-284-2266
Bayside Golf and Lodging ............................. 308-287-4653 Van’s Lakeview Fishing Camp ...................... 308-284-4965
Eagle Canyon Hideaway ............................... 308-287-2673 Motels - Big Springs
Kingsley Lodge ............................................. 308-284-2775 Motel 6 .......................................................... 308-889-3671
Marina Landing ............................................. 308-355-3535 Motels - Lewellen
Mesa View Lodge .......................................... 308-355-5000 Gander Inn Motel .......................................... 308-778-5616
North Shore Lodge ........................................ 308-355-2222 Lewellen Lodge ............................................. 308-672-0690
Otter Creek Lodge ........................................ 308-355-2372 Nancy B’s Backyard Bunkhouse ................... 308-778-5408
Vogl’s Lodge & Lure ...................................... 308-355-2321
Motels - Downtown Ogallala
Lodging - Ogallala Elms Motel .................................................... 308-284-3404
Sandy Spurs House ...................................... 303-810-0069 Lazy K ........................................................... 308-284-4056
Oregon Trail .................................................. 308-284-3705
Campgrounds Paradise ........................................................ 308-284-9940
Arthur Bay RV Park & Storage ...................... 720-581-1018 I-80 Motels - Ogallala
Admiral’s Cove .............................................. 308-355-2102 AmericInn by Wyndham ................................ 308-284-2266
Cedar Vue ............................................................... Gate 13 Best Western Plus ......................................... 308-289-7011
Country View Campground ........................... 308-284-2415 Days Inn ........................................................ 308-284-6365
Lake Ogallala ......................................................... Road 24 Holiday Inn Express & Suites ........................ 308-284-6080
North Shore Lodge ........................................ 308-355-2222 Quality Inn ..................................................... 308-284-3623
The Lodge - RV Park, Paxton ....................... 308-239-4510 Rodeway Inn ................................................. 308-284-2056
Lone Eagle .............................................. Gate 4, Lake Mac Stagecoach Inn ............................................. 308-284-3656
McGreer’s Campground (Big Springs) .......... 308-289-4137 Super 8 Motel ................................................ 308-284-2076
Mesa View Campground ............................... 308-355-5000 I-80 Motels - Paxton
Ogallala-Lake McConaughy KOA ................. 308-284-1300 The Lodge Days Inn ...................................... 308-239-4510
The Lodge
Wide
selectio
n
of new
& used
RVs!
SHELL
Large parts & accessories department
Clean, Comfortable Rooms
Queen & King Units Homemade Pizza,
“Five Starburst Property” Subs, Salads
Expert service department
RV Park Open 24 hrs.
Automatic &
Your RV Dealer for over 35 years! 10-30-50 Amp Service
Manual Car Wash
2 Sewer Hookups at camp pads
Cable TV w/HBO
LARRY’S RV sales & service & Phone Service at each pad
COME VISIT US!!!
Hours: M-F 8 to 5:30; Sat. 8 to 4
Weekly & Monthly Fishing Lake on Site
1802 E 4th • North Platte, NE 69101
308-532-5474 • http://www.larrysrvsales.com I-80 Exit 145 • Paxton, NE • (308) 239-4510
17Opened in 2001, the $2 million, 9,000-square-foot Lake plays, explaining the role of water in Nebraska’s past, present
McConaughy Visitor/Water Interpretive Center serves the area, and future. The center, located south of Kingsley Dam, is open
its citizens and visitors. In addition to serving as lake head- year-round, and often is the first place newcomers visit as
quarters for the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission and they approach Lake McConaughy, obtaining the necessary
Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District, the cen- permits and information needed to enjoy one of the state’s
ter includes aquariums, a 50-seat theater and interpretive dis- finest outdoor recreation areas.
Located on the South Edge General Store
of the Dam
Your One-Stop Resort on Lake McConaughy Newly remodeled!
• Cabins & Kitchenettes
• Gas, Beer, Ice,
Bait & Tackle
For Reservations Call:
308-284-2775
Open March through October
BAIT, BOOZE & BEACHWEAR www.kingsleydamlodge.com
1510 N. Hwy. 61 • Ogallala, NE (9 miles north of Ogallala on Hwy. 61)
18Interpretive, Visitor Center educate public
Inside the Lake McConaughy tional programs for the public,
Visitor Center is a series of dis- many of which are free of
plays and educational videos charge.
that describes and details the Plans for the center began in
role water plays in our every- 1996, when the Friends of the
day lives. Big Mac Committee formed
The Water Interpretive Cen- with the goal to use public and
ter houses interactive displays private funds to expand the
that explain the benefits of the Nebraska Game and Parks
Platte River and the High Plains Commission office, and add a
Aquifer. water interpretive center.
The Interpretive Center is The committee raised more
open to all, free of charge. than $150,000 in donations
The Visitor Center, located from individuals, organizations
south of Kingsley Dam on and foundations, which was
Highway 61, includes the of- matched by a grant from the
fices of the Nebraska Game and Department of Economic De-
Parks Commission, the Water velopment, Travel and Tourism
Interpretive Center, and the Division.
Central Nebraska Public Power In 2006, the Nebraska Water
and Irrigation District office. The Water Interpretive Center features displays on water Center Foundation, a non-profit
The Nebraska Game and for fish, recreation, wildlife and power, a history of Kingsley organization, formed to support
Parks Commission conducts its Dam, the Platte River Basin water supply story, murals and the center’s efforts through
daily Lake McConaughy State short films describing the activities and wildlife at the Lake fund-raising for educational
Recreation Area business from McConaughy State Recreation Area. programs, maintenance and the
the center, and Central Ne- updating of exhibits.
braska Public Power and Irriga- seat theater, a conference room the long days of summer. An education committee was
tion District also has its main and gift shop. In recent years, the Game and organized, and includes people
public office in the facility. During the tourist season, the Parks Commission also has from across the state. The edu-
The facility also features two facility offers extended hours to added a naturalist to its staff. cators give their input into the
1,500-gallon aquariums, a 50- accommodate the visitors and The naturalist organizes educa- programs the center can offer.
Welcome to...
at Lake McConaughy
Overlooking Martin Bay
• All suites have decks or patios with lake view • Easy access with plenty of parking
• Suites sleep 2-7 persons • Kitchens & Fireplaces
• Special king-size honeymoon suite with jacuzzi!
Family Reunion Cabin
5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, complete
kitchen, wet bar, gas fireplace and game
room, wireless DSL, large deck and patio
areas...also great for couples, retreats,
business gatherings!
P.O. Box 53 • Keystone, NE 69144 • 308-726-2892 Search our Web: lakemacbeachhouse.com
19Lake McConaughy
y Recreation Area
EMERGENCY NUMBERS
Dial 911 for all emergencies
Keith County Sheriff,
Ogallala Police Department and
Nebraska State Patrol 308-284-2011
Hospital 308-284-4011
VISITORS, PLEASE NOTE!
No three- or four-wheeled ATVs,
mini-bikes, dirt bikes or golf carts
are allowed in the recreation area.
A current Nebraska park entry
permit is required on all vehicles
entering the recreation area.
Camping fees are charged
at all areas.
NO ALCOHOL OR FIREWORKS
ARE ALLOWED AT THE
LAKE McCONAUGHY
STATE RECREATION AREACITY OF OGALLALA MAP
RESTAURANTS
Arby’s .............................................. 65 East River Road
ATTRACTIONS CAMPGROUNDS A&W Restaurant .................................. 1103 W. First St.
Boothill Cemetery ... W 10th & Parkhill Country View Campground .... 120 Rd Dairy Queen .................................. 200 Texas Trail Drive
Fairgrounds ............. 1100 W. Fifth St. East 80 Driftwood Event Center ...................... 114 N. Spruce St.
Livestock Auction Market . W. Hwy. 30 Ogallala-Lake Mac KOA ..... 221 Road Front Street Steakhouse ......................... 519 E. First St.
Front Street Museum . 519 E. First St. East 85 Golden Village ......................................... 405 E. First St.
Petrified Gallery .......... 418 E. First St. ENTERTAINMENT Homemade Heaven ........................ 12 North Spruce St.
Mansion on the Hill . W 10th & Spruce Bowling Alley .............. 900 E. First St. Taco Jan’s ............................................... 620 E. First St.
Chamber ............... 119 E. Second St. Front Street ................ 519 E. First St. Three Margarita’s ........................ 401 Stagecoach Drive
Goodall Rec. Center ........ 505 E.G St. Golf Course ....... 359 Co. Rd. East 85 McDonald’s .................................... 301 Stagecoach Trail
Outdoor Pool ....... 307 W. Seventh St. Prairie Theatre ....... 208 N. Spruce St. Mi Ranchito ................................... 112 Prospector Drive
Visitors Center ....... 119 E. Second St. Western Diamonds Open Range Grill ............................. 1108 N. Spruce St.
Sports Complex ..... 1600 N. Spruce Peking Chinese Restaurant ..................... 112 East A St.
Pizza Hut ................................................. 516 E. First St.
HOSPITAL Ranch House Cafe ............................... 1507 W. First St.
Ogallala Community Hospital ............................................... 2601 N. Spruce St. Runza ........................................... 205 Stagecoach Trail
Scooters Coffee .......................... 302 Oregon Trail Drive
Slow Lane Coffee .......................... 112 North Spruce St.
Subway ......................................... 100 Prospector Drive
Taco John’s ................................ 302 Oregon Trail Drive
The Urban Farmer ......................... 203 Stagecoach Trail
Travel Centers of America ................. I-80 & Highway 61
Valentino’s ....................................... 55 East River Road
Wendy’s ............................................. Highway 26 & I-80
MOTELS
AmericInn by Wyndham ................ 501 Stagecoach Trail
Best Western Plus .................... 110 Pony Express Lane
Days Inn ........................................ 600 Stagecoach Trail
Elms Motel ............................................. 717 W. First St.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites ... 206 Pony Express Lane
Lazy K Motel ......................................... 1501 E. First St.
Oregon Trail Motel .................................. 214 E. First St.
Quality Inn ................................... 201 Chuckwagon Rd.l
Rodeway Inn .............................. South I-80 Interchange
Sandy Spurs House ................................... 915 W. E St.
South Platte Cabins and Kennels ... 501 Stagecoach Dr.
Stagecoach Inn ............................. 201 Stagecoach Trail
Super 8 Motel ......................... South I-80 & Highway 61
A list of emergency
phone numbers is listed
on the center map.
Map courtesy of Riley Enterprises Ltd.
22Little lake is an ‘every-season’ fishery
Lake Ogallala is a unique Nebraska lake, providing fishing
opportunities during every season of the year, according to long-
time Nebraska Game and Parks Commission Fisheries Biolo-
gist Darrol Eichner.
Eichner, who has been stationed at Lake McConaughy for
more than two decades, said Lake Ogallala is unique in several
ways, including providing anglers with year-round opportuni-
ties.
Eichner said, even during the harshest winter months, Lake
Ogallala provides anglers with opportunity to catch rainbow
trout and other game fish.
In 2019, rainbow trout up to 19 inches, on the large end,
were being caught from the little lake and even larger fish were
being caught in the tributaries from the lake.
As it has in past years, the Game and Parks Commission will
continue to stock rainbow trout in Lake Ogallala and in
Humphreys Pond at Ogallala.
This year, between 50,000 and 60,000 9-1/2 inch rainbow
trout will be stocked in Lake Ogallala.
A total of 30,000 will be stocked in the early spring, with
another 25,000 to 30,000 stocked in the final four months of
the year.
The anticipated trout stockings mark the same pattern the
commission has been using for a number of years.
The commission also stocks rainbow trout in Humphreys
Pond. The late-year stockings are designed to not only allow
anglers to fish during the winter months, but also are performed TROUT FISHERY – A skilled and lucky fisherman visiting
to allow experienced fishermen teach those with little fishing Lake McConaughy caught this 29-inch, 12-pound, 7-ounce
experience. trout near the diversion dam.
Mesa View Lodge
On Lake McConaughy
Cabins • Motel • Banquet Room • Laundromat
Boat & RV Storage • Camper & RV Hook-ups
OFF-SEASON RATES
Just in time for spring & fall fishing & hunting! at LAKE MCCONAUGHY
OPEN YEAR ROUND!
308-355-5000 or 888-568-7620
www.mesaviewlodge.com
1290 Hwy. 92 West • Lewellen, NE 69147
Lakeside Realty Beer ★ Fuel
On Lake McConaughy
Bait ★ Food
Specializing in: Camping & Hunting
• Lake Properties • Investment Properties Supplies
• Commercial • Land Towables ★ Clothing
308-355-5000 or Toll Free 888-568-7620 Beach Accessories
Bruce Gaylord, Broker CraigCat, Paddle Board & Kayak Rentals
www.lakesiderealtyne.com
email: lakesiderealty@lakemac.net Brett & Starla Stetson 308-726-2369
1290 Hwy. 92 West • Lewellen, NE 69147 101 Highway 92 West — Lemoyne, NE 69146
23Completed in 1984 at a cost of $49 million, the Kingsley wholesale to the Nebraska Public Power District. In addition
Hydroelectric Plant is Nebraska’s largest hydroplant. Owned to generating electricity, water released from Kingsley Dam is
and operated by Central Nebraska Public Power and Irriga- used to irrigate 222,000 acres in the Platte River Valley. The
tion District, the plant has produced an annual average of 76.4 system is served by canals and provides groundwater re-
million kilowatt-hours of electricity, all of which is sold at charge to another 310,300 acres irrigated by wells.
Outdoor Power Equip.
ATVs & UTVs
Kawasaki
Yamaha Outboards
Bennington Pontoons
Skeeter Fishing Boats
EAGLE RIDGE BUILDERS, INC.
& Yamaha PWC Mercury Boat Engines
Sales Service
Skeeter, Sea-Doo, Can-Am & Crownline
Kim & Maria Eichner
1210 Ogallala Beach Road • Ogallala, NE 69153
308-284-4852 / 800-286-4852
www.eichners.net
Scotties Potties HERITAGE HOME DISTRIBUTOR
Contact Harold Treptow 303-521-6018
eaglridge@gmail.com
Have your home customized to
fit your needs on a building site.
Big or Small...we can do it ALL! THE DUNES
We have 15 yd. Trash Roll-Off TOWNHOMES – CABINS
For all your septic needs call HOME SITES FOR SALE
308-284-3469 (day or night) 308-289-3395 (cell)
www.thedunesatlakemcconaughy.com
Ogallala, NE
24EAGLE VIEWING CENTER
The Eagle Viewing Center is open
from January to March below the
Kingsley Hydroplant at Lake Ogal-
lala. Bald eagles congregate near
Lake Ogallala during the winter mon-
ths to feed on fish. The Lake McCon-
aughy area provides habitat for hun-
dreds of species of birds.
DO NOT ENTER
THESE ENDANGERED BIRDS,
THEIR NESTS AND EGGS
ARE PROTECTED
25Certain rules
apply to those
wanting to be
on the water
Boating is a natural activity that is found
on Lake McConaughy, and whether it is
in a motorboat, on a personal watercraft,
in a kayak or on a stand-up paddleboard,
the lake demands respect.
Those boating on Nebraska largest res-
ervoir should always keep an eye on the
2601 North Spruce St. • 308-284-3645 • 308-284-4011 weather and head for shore early when
storms approach.
Paddlesports enthusiasts should remem-
ber that they are required to carry and use
life jackets in kayaks and on stand-up
paddleboards, just like those in full-size
vessels.
Boating safety gear and preparation is
a must. Life jackets are required on every
type of vessel and
people of certain ages
are required to wear life
jackets. Water enthusi-
asts must ensure their
boats have all other nec-
essary safety gear before
hitting the water.
Boaters should be
aware that the minimum
age to operate any mo-
torized watercraft is 14. Boating safety
courses are also required of those people
of certain ages.
For a complete listing of safety courses,
visit www.boatsafenebraska.org or contact
the Lake McConaughy Visitor Center at
(308) 284-8800. Those living out of state
are asked to contact their state’s boating
authority.
Any motorized watercraft not registered
in Nebraska is required to display an
Aquatic Invasive Species decal, available
online or from most permit vendors.
Boaters should take care to avoid trans-
porting aquatic nuisance species, such as
zebra mussels, by making sure to clean,
drain and dry their boats before launch-
ing at Lake McConaughy or any other
waterway.
While inspections are not mandatory,
spot inspections are performed at differ-
ent times and locations.
Alcohol consumption is illegal at Lake
McConaughy and should be avoided
while boating or participating in any wa-
ter recreation.
26Lake Mac area is state’s birding hot spot
If Nebraska is “Grand Cen-
tral Station” for birds, then
Keith and Garden counties are
the turnstile.
The passage of cranes is
Nebraska’s best-known bird
phenomenon, but the central
Platte Valley is not the state’s
birding hot spot.
That honor goes to the area
around Lake McConaughy in
Keith and Garden counties, ac-
cording to Paul Johnsgard, pro-
fessor emeritus of life sciences
at the University of Nebraska.
His colleagues have identi-
fied 365 species of birds in THERE ARE MANY SPECIES OF BIRDS THAT VISIT LAKE McCONAUGHY.
Keith and Garden counties and
112 breeding species — what tions in the Great Plains, with a Central Nebraska Public Power away at special areas at the Mar-
Johnsgard called a “cornucopia species list that is unmatched by and Irrigation District on the tin Bay parking lot on the north
of birds.” any area north of Texas,” shore of Lake Ogallala, is open end of Kingsley Dam.
“It’s the best place in the Johnsgard said. from early January until March. Christmas bird counts, held
state and the third-best in the Lake Ogallala also ranks No. Group visits to the center can annually for years, regularly
country to go birding,” Johns- 1 in the state for viewing of bald be arranged by calling (308) place the number of bird spe-
gard said. “It has the third larg- eagles. 284-2332. cies at Lake McConaughy at
est local list for any locality in When Lake McConaughy The west end of Lake Mc- 100 or more.
the entire United States. and Lake Ogallala freeze over, Conaughy also is a favorite Garden County and, specifi-
“The area around Cedar eagles gather to feed below the stopover for sandhills cranes. cally, Oshkosh has long carried
Point Biological Station (below Kingsley Hydroplant. Two threatened species, the the title of Nebraska Goose
Kingsley Dam)...is one of the An indoor, heated eagle- least tern and piping plover, can Capital, with some of the finest
richest ornithological attrac- viewing facility, built by the be watched from just a few feet goose hunting in the nation.
27Come visit...
Lewellen – Oshkosh
12 Miles West of Lake Mac
ART:
Blue Water Gallery
The Most Unlikely Place Café
Main St., Lewellen
50 Murals:
Lewellen & Oshkosh
Shopping:
Prairie Winds Collective
30 vendors
219 Main, Oshkosh visitgardencounty.com
Premium
Affordable
Lodging
The Most Unlikely Place
Café and Art Gallery
205 Main St., Lewellen, NE
Call 308-672-0690 308-778-9557
for reservations www.themostunlikelyplace.com
215 E Church St. Facebook/The Most Unlikely Place
PO Box 187 Open 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Lewellen NE 69147 Wednesday - Saturday
28Ash Hollow is the state’s most unusual park
LEWELLEN – Nebraska’s “most in- tive American Indian, military and 19th
triguing and unusual” state park. Century fur trappers, explorers and pio-
That’s how the Nebraska Game and neers.
Parks Commission describes Ash Hollow The Ash Hollow Indian Cave, now cov-
State Historical Park, located three miles ered with a building for protective pur-
southeast of Lewellen on U.S. Highway 26 poses, further interprets the geologic his-
– or about 30 miles northwest of Ogallala tory of the area.
and just minutes from Lake McConaughy. More than 30 million years of geologic
Settlers on their way west came through history can be examined at the park. The
the area starting in the 1830s and called the geologic history of rocks exposed in the
valley “Ash Hollow” because of the ash park spans that many years. A large num-
trees growing there. ber of fossils from various species, includ-
Open daily, the park is operated by the ing Tertiary mammals, can be found in sedi-
Game & Parks Commission. A state park ments and rocks in the area.
entry permit, available at the park, is re- A visual show traces how man used Ash
quired. Hollow from prehistoric times through the
A modern visitor center interprets the emigrant days of the mid-1800s.
geological, paleontologic, prehistoric, na- Ash Hollow has evidence of prehistoric
animals including rhinoceros, mammoths
and mastodons and also of prehistoric man
dating back 8,000 to 10,000 years.
Ash Hollow also was visited by the
Plains Indians, fur traders and trappers, and
The state historical marker for Wind-
was the site of U.S. troop maneuvers.
lass Hill Pioneer Homestead, which is
It was a principal stopping point on the
located near Ash Hollow State Park.
Oregon, California and Mormon trails with
up to emigrants passing through or by Ash engagements between U.S. troops and the
Located along Highway 26 near Ash Hollow. Sioux ever fought in Nebraska Territory,
Hollow State Historical Park, a sod hou- In 1835, the area was the site of a major the 1855 Battle of Blue Water, a retaliatory
se was built to help recognize the Wind- battle between the Pawnee and the Sioux attack more often referred to as a massacre
lass Hill Pioneer Homestead. and is near the site of one of the largest committed by the U.S. Army.
Otter Creek
Lodge Ogallala/Lake McConaughy
Restaurant
Motel • C-Store Bar & Motel OGALLALA/LAKE MCCONAUGHY OFFERS:
Tackle • Bait Pull Through/Full Hook-up Sites
Premium Tent Sites
Restaurant
Clean Bathrooms
Town Square Meeting Area
Kamp K9 Dog Park
Mobile Home Park
BOOK YOUR STAY:
Located on the North Side of Open Year Round! www.koa.com/
campgrounds/ogallala
Lake McConaughy at Gate 12 Located on the North Side of 308-284-1300
~ Open Year Round ~ Lake McConaughy between or
1-800-562-3433
Cedar Vue & Omaha Beach.
100 Otter Creek Court
Lewellen, NE 69147 Phone: 308-355-3535 I-80 Exit 126
10 miles south of Lake McConaughy
308-355-2372 www.lakemacmarinalanding.com 221 Road East 85
Ogallala, NE 69153
29Church is monument to religious harmony
KEYSTONE – In 1908, in a town “too
small” for two churches, the community
of Keystone needed a church.
In a rare display of togetherness,
townsfolk built a “combination” church to
serve both Catholics and Protestants.
The church is approximately 18 feet
wide and 40 feet long.
At the north end was a Catholic altar;
at the south end, a Protestant altar. Pews
with reversible backs were installed. The
stove was an old Union Pacific depot
stove.
For Catholic Mass, parishioners faced
the Catholic altar. Then, pew backs were
flipped over and the Protestant congrega-
tion faced the Protestant altar.
The church, with seating capacity of 70
to 75 people, remained in use until 1949.
The first idea for a church was con-
ceived by 11 teenage girls led by Mrs. Bill
Paxton Jr., who had organized them into a
club similar to present 4-H clubs. Mrs. The Little Church at Keystone was built in 1908. The frame church was built by
Paxton also helped found the Keystone Catholics and Protestants, and remained in use until 1949. The church has been
Library. Mr. Paxton was a well-known undergoing renovations during recent years, including a new roof, inside refur-
rancher, after whom the town of Paxton is bishing and a new sidewalk leading up to the building.
named. When completed, the church cost
$1,200. When it was dedicated on Aug. William Fenwick, was held four days later, tant amity and is put to use occasionally
16, 1908, it was debt-free. on Aug. 20, 1908. for weddings.
The first wedding in the church, a mar- The Little Church at Keystone still It is operated by the Keith County His-
riage between Miss Anna Knight and Mr. stands as a monument to Catholic-Protes- torical Society.
Fishing & Hunting Licenses
Live Bait • Ice Open
Groceries • Beer 7 days
a week
Wine • Tackle 6 a.m. t
o
Gas • RV Park 6 p . m .
308-355-2793
1402 Hwy. 92 W - Gate 13
Lewellen, NE
30You can also read
